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SEIA Statement on Georgia Public Service Commission Solar Decision

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WASHINGTON, DC – Rhone Resch, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) today released the following statement in response to yesterday’s decision by the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) to add 525 megawatts (MW) of new solar energy development through the state:

“SEIA applauds the Georgia PSC for recognizing the benefits Georgia stands to gain from a build-out of solar energy. Solar provides clean, reliable electricity, while helping utilities to achieve fuel diversity – and the PSC understands these values. Georgia boasts impressive solar energy potential – ranking 6th in the nation on rooftop solar potential alone – yet it is currently ranked 21st in installed solar capacity among all states. This decision will help Georgia to move up this list and to better realize the economic and environmental benefits solar offers.

“There is now more than 8,500 megawatts (MW) of cumulative solar electric capacity installed in the U.S. – enough to power more than 1.3 million American homes. What’s more, in the first quarter of 2013, more than 48 percent all new electricity added to the grid was solar. In addition, innovative solar heating and cooling systems are offering American consumers cost-efficient, effective options for meeting their energy needs.

“Today, solar employs nearly 120,000 Americans at more than 5,600 companies, most of which are small businesses spread across the United States, making solar one of the fastest growing industries in America. Part of this amazing growth is attributed to the fact that the cost of a solar system has dropped by nearly 40 percent over the past two years, making solar more affordable than ever.

“Yesterday’s decision by the PSC helps to ensure that Georgia will embrace its solar potential and have a greater stake in the nation’s rapidly-growing solar energy industry. We look forward to working in concert with the PSC, Georgia Power, our state chapter Georgia-SEA, and other stakeholders to help Georgia become an important player in the national solar success story.”

The PSC’s plan calls for 525 MW of new solar projects to be developed in 2015 and 2016, extending and expanding last year’s Advanced Solar Initiative, which will bring 210 MW of solar power to Georgia by 2015.

About SEIA®:Established in 1974, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA and its 1,000 member companies are building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works to make solar a mainstream and significant energy source by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. www.seia.org